Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu

Your Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu begins early in the morning. Around 5:00 a.m., the Inside Peru Adventures team will pick you up directly from your hotel, Airbnb, or accommodation in Cusco. From there, we begin our journey in private transportation through the Andes of Peru, driving approximately 2.5 hours to Mollepata.

Located at around 2,850 m / 9,350 ft, Mollepata is a traditional Andean town surrounded by valleys, farmland, and mountain scenery. Here, we will stop to enjoy a nourishing breakfast, giving you the energy needed for your first day on the Salkantay Trek.

After breakfast, we continue by vehicle for approximately 1 more hour toward the area between Challacancha and Soraypampa, at around 3,900 m / 12,795 ft. This is where our first hike begins, surrounded by impressive views of the Vilcabamba mountain range and the first glimpses of the sacred snow-capped peaks.

From this point, we start our ascent toward the stunning Humantay Blue Lagoon, one of the most beautiful glacial lakes in the Andes. The hike uphill takes approximately 2 hours, following a scenic mountain trail with panoramic views of Apu Humantay and the surrounding high-Andean landscape.

Upon arrival at Humantay Blue Lagoon, located at approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft, you will have time to rest, take photos, enjoy the turquoise waters, and listen to your guide's explanation about the spiritual importance of this sacred lake and its connection with Andean cosmology. We will spend around 30 minutes to 1 hour at the lagoon, depending on weather conditions and the group's pace.

After enjoying this unforgettable highlight of the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu, we begin our descent toward Soraypampa. The hike down takes approximately 1 hour, and from there we continue walking toward our Soraypampa Campsite, completing a total trekking time of approximately 4.5 to 5 hours for the day.

Upon arrival at Soraypampa Campsite, located at around 3,900 m / 12,795 ft, you will be welcomed with a warm lunch and time to settle into your mountain lodge or campsite accommodation. The afternoon is free to rest, hydrate, acclimatize, and enjoy the peaceful alpine scenery beneath the impressive presence of Apu Salkantay, one of the most sacred mountains in Andean tradition.

As the sun sets behind the mountains, you will enjoy a nourishing chef-prepared dinner. Later, your guide will provide a full briefing for the next day's adventure, including details about the trail, altitude, weather, and recommendations for crossing the high mountain pass. If the sky is clear, you may also enjoy a spectacular night full of stars, creating a magical first evening in the Andes.

• Humantay Blue Lagoon
• Soraypampa scenic trail
• Rustic mountain lodge beneath Apu Salkantay

Wake up in the heart of the Andes as the first light begins to illuminate the mountains around Soraypampa. After a warm coca tea and a hearty chef-prepared breakfast, we begin the most demanding and rewarding day of the Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu.

From Soraypampa Campsite, we start with an approximately 2-hour hike toward Salkantaypampa, gradually gaining elevation through high-Andean landscapes surrounded by glacier views, open valleys, and the powerful presence of Apu Salkantay. This first section helps the body warm up before reaching the steeper ascent toward the high pass.

From Salkantaypampa, we continue with a steady uphill climb of approximately 3 hours to the dramatic Salkantay Pass, located at 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. This is the highest point of the route and one of the most unforgettable moments of the Salkantay Trek. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Apu Salkantay, Humantay, Tucarhuay, Pumasillo, and the surrounding glacier peaks.

At the pass, we will take time to rest, take photos, enjoy the high-mountain scenery, and listen to your guide's explanation about the spiritual importance of Apu Salkantay in Andean cosmology. This is a powerful big-mountain moment, where the landscapes of the Andes of Peru feel truly immense and sacred.

After enjoying the summit experience, we begin our descent for approximately 2 hours toward the broad Wayraqmachay valley, where we will stop for a well-earned lunch. As we descend, you will begin to notice how the air becomes warmer and the vegetation slowly changes, marking the transition from the high-Andean puna toward the edge of the cloud forest.

After lunch, we continue hiking for approximately 4 more hours down into the vibrant cloud forest, locally known as the ceja de selva, or "eyebrow of the jungle." This section of the Salkantay route is rich in biodiversity, with orchids, bromeliads, butterflies, hummingbirds, native plants, and the sound of rivers flowing through the valley.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Collpapampa Campsite, located at approximately 2,950 m / 9,678 ft. Here, the warmer air of the cloud forest welcomes you after a long day of trekking. You will settle into your rustic mountain lodge, enjoy time to rest, and later share a nourishing dinner prepared by our chef team. In the evening, your guide will provide a complete briefing for the next day's journey through the cloud forest toward Lucmabamba.

• Salkantay Pass, the highest point of the trek
• Glacial panoramas of Apu Salkantay
• Descent from the high Andes into the cloud forest

Wake up to birdsong and warmer air in the cloud forest, locally known as the ceja de selva. After a nutritious chef-prepared breakfast, we begin a beautiful hiking day through one of the most biodiverse sections of the Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu.

Today's trail follows the Santa Teresa valley, moving along riverside and valley-side paths surrounded by waterfalls, bamboo groves, orchids, bromeliads, hummingbirds, butterflies, and lush tropical vegetation. This part of the Salkantay Trek is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers who want to experience the dramatic transition from the high Andes into the cloud forest.

As we continue toward Lucmabamba, the landscape becomes greener, warmer, and more vibrant. The sound of rivers, the scent of native plants, and the views of small community farms create a completely different atmosphere from the high-mountain scenery of the previous days.

By midday, we arrive at Lucmabamba, located at approximately 2,000 m / 6,562 ft. This peaceful village is surrounded by smallholder coffee farms and fertile agricultural terraces. Here, we enjoy a fresh, farm-inspired lunch prepared by our chef team, highlighting the flavors of the cloud forest region.

After lunch and check-in at our rustic mountain lodge, you will have time to rest before joining one of the most meaningful experiences of the route: the Inside Peru Coffee Experience. This hands-on, bean-to-cup activity connects travelers with local coffee culture and supports sustainable, community-based ecotourism.

During the coffee experience, you will walk through the terraces, learn about coffee plants, pick ripe cherries when seasonally available, and participate in the traditional process of depulping, washing, drying, roasting, grinding, and brewing. Along the way, our local hosts will explain how altitude, varieties, climate, and processing methods shape the flavor of Peruvian coffee.

This experience is more than a demonstration; it is a direct way to support local families, fair compensation, and responsible travel through the Inside Peru Adventures approach. The activity ends with a personalized coffee tasting, often paired with regional snacks and warm conversation with the host family.

In the evening, enjoy a rejuvenating chef-prepared dinner at the lodge. Your guide will then provide a complete briefing for the next day's hike toward Llactapata, one of the most special viewpoints of Machu Picchu. Tonight's lower elevation offers excellent conditions for rest and recovery, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the cloud forest.

• Cloud forest hike through the Santa Teresa valley
• Waterfalls, orchids, hummingbirds, and tropical biodiversity
• Inside Peru Coffee Experience in Lucmabamba

After an energizing chef-prepared breakfast, we begin our hike from Lucmabamba, located at approximately 2,000 m / 6,562 ft. Today's route follows an ancient Inca-era trail through the cloud forest, locally known as the ceja de selva, as we continue one of the most scenic sections of the Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu.

The first part of the day is a steady uphill hike of approximately 3 hours toward Llactapata, located at around 2,840 m / 9,318 ft. This beautiful ridge-top archaeological site offers one of the most special views of the entire Salkantay Trek: a unique off-axis panorama of Machu Picchu surrounded by the mountains of the Vilcanota range.

At Llactapata, we pause to enjoy the viewpoint, take photos and videos, and listen to your guide's interpretation of the site. You will learn how Llactapata connects with the Vilcanota Valley, the Urubamba River, and the wider Inca road network. For many travelers, this is the first direct view of Machu Picchu during the trek, making it an unforgettable milestone before reaching the citadel the following day.

After enjoying the archaeological site and its panoramic views, we begin a descent of approximately 2 hours through forested switchbacks toward Hidroeléctrica, located at around 1,900 m / 6,234 ft. Along the way, the cloud forest continues to reveal lush vegetation, warm air, and beautiful views of the surrounding valleys.

At Hidroeléctrica, we enjoy our last chef-prepared lunch of the trekking route. This is also a meaningful moment to share a heartfelt farewell with the horsemen and cook team who have supported the journey from the high Andes to the cloud forest. Their work is an essential part of the Salkantay experience and of our responsible travel approach.

In the afternoon, we continue on foot along the flat rail-side trail toward Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town. This final walking section takes approximately 3 hours and follows the Vilcanota River, surrounded by towering granite walls, tropical vegetation, and the deep green landscapes of the Urubamba Gorge.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, located at approximately 2,040 m / 6,693 ft, your guide will escort you to your hotel for check-in and a well-deserved hot shower. After several days on the trail, this evening offers comfort, rest, and excitement before the final visit to Machu Picchu.

Tonight, we meet for a celebratory dinner at a curated local restaurant. Your guide will provide the final briefing for tomorrow's visit to Machu Picchu, including entry logistics, timing, bus coordination, and optional add-on hikes if booked. Rest well and get ready, because tomorrow you will explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

• Llactapata archaeological site and viewpoint
• First panoramic view of Machu Picchu
• Descent through the cloud forest to Hidroeléctrica
• Farewell lunch with the trek support team

Today is the crown jewel of your Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu. After an early wake-up, enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, also known as Machu Picchu Town. If needed, a packed breakfast can be requested in advance. Leave your main luggage in hotel storage and bring only a small daypack with your essentials, including your passport, sun protection, water, and camera.

We walk to the Aguas Calientes bus station, where boarding operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The scenic bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes, following a winding mountain road up to the entrance of Machu Picchu, located at around 2,430 m / 7,972 ft.

Before entering the archaeological site, your guide will remind you to use the restrooms located outside the entrance gate, as there are no restrooms inside Machu Picchu. Once inside, your guided visit follows Circuit 2, or the best available circuit according to your confirmed ticket, allowing you to explore the most important sectors of the Lost City of the Incas.

During the guided tour, you will visit panoramic viewpoints, agricultural terraces, ritual fountains, royal quarters, sacred precincts, and examples of masterful Inca stonework. Your guide will provide expert interpretation focused on history, engineering, ecology, sacred geography, and Andean cosmology, helping you understand why Machu Picchu remains one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the world.

The guided visit usually lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the circuit, pace, and site regulations. If you reserved an optional hike in advance, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, your guide will help coordinate the timing and provide instructions before you continue independently according to your ticket schedule.

After the visit, we descend by bus back to Aguas Calientes, where you will have time for lunch on your own. Later, you will board the Expedition train from Machu Picchu Station to Ollantaytambo, enjoying a scenic ride through the Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to Cusco.

The final transfer brings you back to your hotel in Cusco, located at approximately 3,399 m / 11,152 ft. Estimated arrival is usually around 8:00 p.m., depending on train schedule, traffic, and operational conditions. This marks the end of your unforgettable Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with Inside Peru Adventures.

• Guided visit of Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas
• Panoramic viewpoints, terraces, fountains, and sacred precincts
• Expert interpretation of Inca history, engineering, and Andean cosmology

When planning your trip to Cusco, keep in mind that Cusco Airport currently handles domestic flights. International travelers usually arrive first in Lima, clear immigration and customs at Jorge Chávez International Airport, and then check in again for the domestic flight to Cusco.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Cusco is by air. Several domestic airlines operate daily flights from Lima to Cusco, including LATAM, Avianca, and SKY Airline. LATAM usually offers more frequency, although often at a higher price point.

Flight delays or cancellations may happen due to weather conditions and high-altitude landing restrictions in Cusco. For this reason, we strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before your trek to acclimatize and avoid disruptions.

Traveling by bus is also possible. The journey from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 20-22 hours, but modern buses with VIP seats can be comfortable. This option is especially useful for travelers coming from Puno, Arequipa, or nearby regions.

• Pre-Trek Briefing: The evening before your trek, you will meet your Inside Peru Adventures guide in Cusco, review the route, receive final recommendations, and get your IPA duffel for the trail.
• Lodge-Based Trek: This is a lodge-based Salkantay trek. You will sleep in rustic mountain lodges with real beds and mattresses, plus one night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. No tents, no ground sleeping, and no camping mats are required.
• Duffel Limit: Your IPA duffel is limited to 7 kg / 14 lb and will be transported between overnight points by our horsemen or support team.
• Daypack: Hike with a compact daypack, ideally 25L or smaller, carrying water, layers, rain gear, sun protection, snacks, camera or phone, and your passport.
• Main Luggage Storage: Your extra luggage will be stored securely in Cusco during the trek and returned to you after you arrive back from Machu Picchu.

For cozy high-Andes nights in the rustic mountain lodges, Inside Peru Adventures provides a warm sleeping bag, clean liner, and soft travel pillow at no extra cost.

• Weight Note: The sleep kit weighs approximately 2.8-3.0 kg. If you place it inside your IPA duffel, it counts toward the 7 kg / 14 lb limit.
• Hygiene: Liners are changed after every trek, and sleep kits are cleaned and sanitized between departures.
• Personal Preference: If you prefer to use your own sleeping bag or liner, please let us know at the time of booking.

The Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek reaches its highest point at Salkantay Pass, located at approximately 4,630 m / 15,190 ft. Because of the altitude, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before the trek whenever possible.

To feel your best at altitude, hydrate often, drink coca tea if it helps you, eat light, walk at a steady pace, avoid alcohol before the trek, and let your guide know immediately if you feel unwell.

This is a moderate to challenging Andes trek with 5-10 hours of hiking per day, uneven terrain, steep sections, stairs, and meaningful altitude.

The most demanding day is usually Day 2, when we cross Salkantay Pass. Trekking poles are required for better stability and joint support. Bring your own poles with rubber tips or rent a pair from us for US$25.

Peru's Andes region features varied microclimates. During this trek, you will experience cold high-Andean mornings, strong sun exposure, possible rain, warmer cloud-forest weather, and humid conditions near Machu Picchu.

• Dry Season: April to October usually offers the best trekking conditions, with sunny days and colder nights. Ideal for Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, and mountain hikes.
• Rainy Season: December to February brings more rain, especially around Machu Picchu and Cusco. Landscapes are lush and green, but trails can be muddy.
• Shoulder Months: March and November may bring a mix of sun and rain, so packing for both dry and wet conditions is essential.

Smart Packing Essentials for Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu

• Layered Clothing: Dress in breathable, quick-dry layers. Begin with a thermal base, add a warm fleece, and top with a lightweight waterproof jacket.
• Reliable Sun Protection: UV exposure is strong across the Andes, even on cloudy days. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV-rated sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Compact Rain Gear: A foldable rain poncho or waterproof jacket is essential, especially near Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu.
• Comfortable Footwear: Use well-worn hiking shoes with good grip. Avoid brand-new shoes to prevent blisters.
• Accessories for Early Starts: Pack a warm hat, lightweight gloves, and a scarf for chilly mornings and train station waits.
• Hydration on the Go: Bring a refillable water bottle or hydration pack. High-altitude regions can dehydrate you faster.
• Snacks: Pack high-energy snacks such as protein bars, dried fruit, or trail mix for early departures and long hiking sections.
• Daypack & Entry Requirements: A small daypack, ideally 25L max, is perfect for daily essentials. Machu Picchu requires your original passport for entry.

Your safety is our priority. Our professional guides are trained in first aid, altitude awareness, emergency response, and outdoor risk management.

• Trained & Certified Guides: Our guides are prepared to handle minor injuries, altitude discomfort, and emergency situations.
• First-Aid Kits: We carry a first-aid kit on trek, including supplies for common travel issues such as blisters, minor cuts, insect bites, and altitude-related symptoms.
• Oxygen & Altitude Support: On high-altitude routes such as the Salkantay Trek, our guides carry portable oxygen and monitor travelers carefully.
• Emergency Access: Our team follows established response plans with local support and transport services if evacuation is required.

Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended for this trek. Adventure travel involves remote areas, changing weather, high altitude, and possible transport disruptions.

What Your Policy Should Cover

• Altitude sickness and medical emergencies.
• Trip cancellations or itinerary interruptions.
• Weather-related delays or disruptions.
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Lost or delayed luggage.
• Trekking, hiking, and adventure travel activities.

Pro Tip: Not all insurance policies automatically cover high-altitude trekking. Please confirm that your policy covers activities above 3,000 m / 9,840 ft.

Peru occasionally experiences social protests or transport strikes that may affect roads, rail service, or access routes. Your safety always comes first.

• Proactive Adjustments: If disruptions are announced, our Operations team may adjust logistics with earlier departures, alternative routes, or revised timings.
• Transparent Coordination: We coordinate with your group, local providers, and authorities whenever possible.
• Safety First: We operate only when conditions are safe and responsible.
• Alternative Options: If road or rail closures make operation impossible, we will discuss equivalent alternatives or rescheduling options according to the situation on the ground.

Tipping is customary on multi-day treks in Peru, but it is always voluntary and based on your satisfaction. At Inside Peru Adventures, we support fair wages; tips are simply a personal way to recognize exceptional service.

• Currency: Support team members usually prefer Peruvian soles. Guides are happy with either soles or US dollars.
• When: Tips are usually given after the last dinner or final trek briefing.
• How to Pool: For the support team, tips are usually pooled and divided fairly by the lead guide. The guide's tip is personal and not pooled.

Suggested Amounts per Traveler

Small & Private Groups: Smaller groups mean the same crew supports fewer travelers. If you are 1-3 trekkers, consider the upper end of the ranges, or a little more, if the service is outstanding.

You are responsible for your personal belongings during the trek. Please double-check vans, lodges, restaurants, viewpoints, train stations, and rest areas before leaving.

Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the trail. If something goes missing, tell your guide immediately so we can help you locate it as quickly as possible.

At Inside Peru Adventures, sustainability is not only a value; it is part of how we operate. Our trips are designed with respect for nature, culture, local families, and the destinations we visit.

• Eco-Friendly Adventure Travel: We follow low-impact practices and encourage travelers to respect trails, wildlife, sacred places, and local communities.
• Plastic-Free Philosophy: We encourage refillable bottles and responsible waste management to reduce single-use plastic during the journey.
• Respect for Local Culture: We engage with indigenous communities, sacred sites, and ancestral customs in a culturally sensitive way.
• Community Empowerment: Your booking helps generate income for local guides, families, farmers, transport providers, and community partners.

Many travel companies talk about women empowerment, sustainability, and social impact. At Inside Peru Adventures, we want these values to be more than words on a website - we want them to become real opportunities, real participation, and real change within local tourism.

Inside Peru Adventures is proudly led by a Peruvian woman from the Cusco region. This matters because our vision is not only to sell tours, but to build a fairer model of tourism where local people, women, families, and communities have a stronger voice and a greater role in the future of travel in Peru.

• Women-Led Local Company: IPA is guided by local female leadership, with a commitment to creating more space for women in tourism, trekking, operations, guiding, coordination, and community-based experiences.
• Real Action, Not Just Words: We believe women empowerment should be reflected in decisions, hiring, training, visibility, and long-term opportunities - not only in marketing messages.
• Local People First: Unlike large-scale tourism models, we aim to keep tourism benefits closer to Cusco, the Andes, and the communities that make each journey possible.
• Fair & Respectful Opportunities: We value professionalism, knowledge, language skills, leadership, and dedication equally, helping more local talent grow with dignity and recognition.
• Purpose Behind Every Journey: When travelers choose IPA, they support a company that is building a more human, inclusive, and responsible way to experience Peru.

The IPA Foundation is part of our long-term commitment to turn tourism into a tool for positive transformation. Our focus is women empowerment, education, community support, and meaningful opportunities for children, families, and local communities in the Andean region.

We believe that responsible travel should not end when the tour finishes. Every journey can become a bridge between travelers and local communities, helping support education, cultural pride, women's participation, and a stronger future for the next generations.

• Women Empowerment: We aim to support projects that strengthen women's skills, confidence, leadership, and participation in tourism and community life.
• Education First: We believe education is one of the most powerful ways to create long-term change for children, young people, and families in rural Andean communities.
• Community-Based Support: Future initiatives may include school materials, workshops, cultural exchange, local entrepreneurship, and projects designed together with communities.
• Travel with Purpose: By choosing Inside Peru Adventures, travelers become part of a tourism model that gives back in a more direct, human, and meaningful way.
• More Than a Destination: For us, Peru is not only a place to visit. It is a living culture, a community, and a responsibility we are proud to protect and support.

• Valid Passport: Always carry your original passport. It is required for Machu Picchu entry, train checks, and hotel check-ins.
• Valid Student ID: Required only if you booked your trek with a student discount.
• Immigration Card: Keep it safe if applicable. It may be requested during your trip in Peru.
• Travel Insurance Details: Carry your policy number and proof of coverage, especially for trekking above 3,000 m / 9,840 ft.
• Tickets & Hotels: Your IPA guide manages train tickets, bus tickets, Machu Picchu entry, and hotel arrangements. A digital copy on your phone is optional for peace of mind.
• Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are required, with rubber tips. Bring your own or rent a pair from Inside Peru Adventures for US$25.

Your IPA duffel is carried by the support team and is limited to 7 kg / 14 lb. IPA provides a warm sleeping bag, liner, and small pillow. If you pack this sleep-warm kit in your duffel, it counts toward the 7 kg limit.

• 2-3 wicking t-shirts.
• 2-3 hiking pants or trekking leggings.
• 4 sets of undergarments.
• 4 pairs of hiking socks, preferably merino or synthetic.
• 1 fleece or warm sweater.
• 1 warm down jacket for cold nights at altitude.
• 1 waterproof jacket and rain pants, or a compact rain poncho.
• 1 sun hat and 1 wool hat or beanie.
• Waterproof gloves or warm gloves.
• Headlamp, essential for early mornings and lodge use.
• Comfortable camp shoes, such as light sandals or slip-ons.
• Quick-dry towel. IPA supplies a small one, but you may bring a larger towel if preferred.
• Small bottle of soap. IPA provides warm water daily for washing.
• Power bank or portable charger, as outlets may be limited on the trail.
• Large plastic bags or dry bags to organize clean and dirty clothes.
• Sleeping bag, liner, and small pillow if packed inside your duffel.

• Trekking Shoes: Bring water-resistant walking boots or trekking shoes with good grip. Avoid brand-new shoes to prevent blisters.
• Daypack: A small daypack is required for daily use. Machu Picchu allows small backpacks only, ideally 25L or smaller.
• Layered Clothing: Use breathable layers: base layer, fleece or sweater, and a light waterproof or windproof jacket.
• Sun Protection: Bring a sun hat or cap, light scarf or buff, sunscreen, and UV sunglasses.
• Rain Protection: A light rain poncho or waterproof jacket is essential because weather can change quickly in the Andes.
• Cold-Night Layers: Bring extra thermal layers for high-altitude nights around Soraypampa and Salkantay Pass.
• Extra Socks: Merino or synthetic socks are recommended. Bring at least one extra pair for wet or cold conditions.
• Trekking Poles: Required with rubber tips. Bring your own or rent from IPA for US$25.

• Sunscreen SPF 50+ and UV-rated sunglasses.
• Lip balm and hydrating face cream.
• Hand sanitizer and biodegradable wet wipes.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Small roll of toilet paper.
• Bug spray or insect repellent, especially for cloud forest and lower elevations.
• Personal medication, including prescriptions, pain relievers, motion-sickness tablets, or altitude medication if prescribed by your doctor.
• Mini first-aid kit with band-aids, moleskin, Compeed, blister care, and personal basics.

Your daypack should be compact and comfortable. For Machu Picchu, keep it small, ideally 25L max. IPA provides safe drinking water at each meal; you are responsible for your first morning's water until the Day 1 lunch refill.

• Water for departure on Day 1, plus reusable bottle or hydration bladder.
• Sun hat or cap.
• Rain gear, such as poncho or waterproof shell.
• Fleece or warm layer.
• Camera or smartphone.
• Phone, music, and earphones if desired.
• Hand sanitizer.
• Toilet paper and small waste bag.
• Extra cash in soles for souvenirs, drinks, snacks, bathrooms, or tips.
• Earplugs for shared or lodge-style environments.
• Original passport, required for Machu Picchu entry.

• Water Storage: Hydration reservoirs such as CamelBaks are encouraged. Carry capacity for at least 2-3 liters is recommended.
• High-Energy Snacks: Pack compact snacks such as granola bars, trail mix, protein bars, nuts, or dried fruit to help replenish energy during the hike.
• Camera or Smartphone: You will want to capture dramatic landscapes, cloud forest scenes, and Machu Picchu. Keep devices protected from rain and humidity.
• Power Bank: A backup battery is highly recommended because charging opportunities may be limited on the trail.
• Cash in Soles: Small denominations are useful for optional tips, snacks, bathrooms, souvenirs, and local purchases.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Help reduce plastic waste by bringing a refillable bottle or hydration pack. Check the Inclusions section to confirm refill availability during your route.

On the Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek 5D/4N with Inside Peru Adventures, you will sleep in cozy rustic mountain lodges along the route and one 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes. This means no tents, no ground sleeping, and no camping mats.

• Rustic Mountain Lodges: Lodge settings with real beds, proper mattresses, warm lodge bedding, and a more comfortable recovery experience after each trekking day.
• Hotel in Aguas Calientes: One night in a 3-star hotel in Machu Picchu Town before your guided visit to the citadel.
• Sleep-Warm Kit Included: IPA provides a warm sleeping bag, clean liner, and soft travel pillow at no extra cost for extra warmth at altitude.
• Duffel Weight Limit: If you place the sleep-warm kit inside your IPA duffel, it counts toward the 7 kg / 14 lb carry limit. A typical split is around 4 kg for personal items and around 3 kg for the sleep kit.
• Lodge-to-Lodge Support: If you prefer not to pack the sleep-warm kit in your duffel, we can stage it lodge-to-lodge so you still hike light with only your compact daypack.
• IPA Duffel: Your duffel is issued at the pre-trek briefing and transported between overnight points by our porters or horsemen.
• Compact Daypack: Hike with a small daypack, ideally 25L or smaller. Machu Picchu admits small backpacks only.
• Trekking Poles Required: Trekking poles with rubber tips are required to protect your knees and the trail. Bring your own or rent a pair from IPA for US$25.
• Power Bank Recommended: Power is limited on the mountain section, so bring a power bank for phones, cameras, and small electronics.
• Personal Gear Preferences: If you have a comfort request or specific gear preference, tell us at booking so we can tailor support to your pace and travel style.

Your trek features chef-prepared, mountain-fresh meals designed for energy, comfort, and taste at altitude. Meals are prepared with care by our trekking chef and support team, using local Andean ingredients whenever possible.

• Days 1-3: Hot breakfasts, nutritious lunches, and hearty dinners prepared by our trekking chef along the route.
• Day 4: Hot breakfast at the lodge and a boxed or field lunch at Hidroeléctrica. This is the final meal prepared by our cook team before continuing to Aguas Calientes.
• Dinner in Aguas Calientes: On Day 4, enjoy an included dinner at a curated local restaurant in Machu Picchu Town.
• Happy Hour on Trekking Days: Each trekking afternoon, we offer a cozy tea or coffee moment with snacks before dinner to help you refuel after the hike.
• Family-Style Meals: Meals are generally served family-style, so you can take what you like and eat according to your appetite.
• Dietary Needs: We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice.
• Food Safety: Our crew follows strict hygiene and food-safety protocols throughout the trek.
• Lucmabamba Coffee Experience: Day 3 includes a hands-on farm-to-cup coffee experience in the cloud forest, connecting you directly with local producers.

Staying hydrated is essential for altitude performance, especially when trekking from the High Andes into the orchid-rich cloud forest and onward to Machu Picchu.

• Safe Drinking Water: Inside Peru Adventures provides safe drinking water, boiled or filtered and cooled, at meals from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 4.
• First Morning Water: For the morning of Day 1, please bring your own water to start, as the first refill is available at lunch.
• Recommended Carry Amount: Begin each hiking segment with 2-3 liters of water in reusable bottles or a CamelBak-style hydration bladder.
• Refill Times: Refill your bottles or hydration bladder at mealtimes when safe drinking water is provided.
• Reusable Hydration System: We strongly encourage reusable bottles or hydration bladders to reduce single-use plastic on the trail.
• Altitude Performance: Drink steadily throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty. Hydration helps you feel stronger and adapt better to altitude.
• Responsible Travel: IPA actively minimizes single-use plastic on the route to help protect the fragile mountain and cloud-forest environment.

Day 1 and the first half of Day 2 are supported by local horsemen who move IPA duffels and expedition gear between overnight points. After Wayraqmachay and Collpapampa, the trail enters the cloud forest and becomes more foot-based, so logistics are coordinated differently through lodge hand-offs, meal timing, water points, and safety checks.

• Light Trekking Model: You carry only a compact daypack with your daily essentials while your IPA duffel is transferred between overnight points.
• Hybrid Support: Horsemen assist in the high-mountain section, while our operations team coordinates the lodge-based logistics through the rest of the route.
• Low-Impact Travel: This model keeps the route lighter, more organized, and more respectful of the communities and landscapes that support the trek.

As a women-led and community-rooted local tour operator, Inside Peru Adventures believes that fair tourism must begin with the people who make each journey possible. Our field teams deserve dignity, protection, proper equipment, and recognition for their work.

• Fair Pay: IPA pays promptly and aims to offer above-market conditions whenever possible.
• Safer Loads: We manage porter and horsemen loads responsibly to protect long-term health and reduce unnecessary physical strain.
• Training & Safety: Field staff receive guidance in first aid, altitude response, emergency procedures, and safe trekking logistics.
• Proper Equipment: We work toward providing crews with appropriate technical layers, footwear, and field support for mountain conditions.
• Shared Dignity: Our team members are not invisible support; they are part of the experience and part of the story of the Andes.

Our commitment to community is not only a statement; it is reflected in the way the Salkantay Trek is operated. We prioritize local sourcing, fair collaboration, and meaningful traveler-to-community experiences along the route.

• Local Sourcing: We work with local providers in areas such as Mollepata, Limatambo, Lucmabamba, and surrounding valleys whenever possible.
• Community-Based Experiences: The Lucmabamba Coffee Experience connects travelers directly with local producers and helps return value to the valley.
• Women's Collaborations: We aim to strengthen partnerships with women's textile collectives, hosts, cooks, farmers, and local entrepreneurs.
• Living Culture: Many local partners come from Quechua-speaking families and farming communities, keeping traditional knowledge alive through responsible tourism.

Inside Peru Adventures is proudly led by a Peruvian woman from the Cusco region. Our vision is to help build a different kind of tourism: one where women have more opportunities to lead, guide, drive, coordinate, operate, and grow professionally in an industry where field leadership has often been limited for them.

• Women in the Field: We want to create more opportunities for female guides, assistants, coordinators, drivers, hosts, and local partners.
• Equal Recognition: Skills, language ability, professionalism, and leadership should be valued equally, regardless of gender.
• Local Female Leadership: Choosing IPA supports a company model where women are not only part of the team, but part of the decision-making and future of tourism.
• Real Change Through Travel: Every booking helps us grow a tourism model based on dignity, opportunity, training, and fair participation.

The Salkantay route crosses fragile high-Andean ecosystems, glacial valleys, cloud forest, rivers, and community lands. Our goal is to operate with care and reduce the footprint of every departure.

• Trail Care: We support responsible trail use, litter control, and seasonal care actions with local partners whenever possible.
• Reduced Plastic: Refill-based hydration at meals helps reduce single-use plastic on the trek.
• Wildlife Ethics: We do not feed wildlife and encourage respectful distance from animals and natural habitats.
• Native Reforestation: IPA supports the long-term vision of native high-Andean reforestation, especially with species such as Queuña / Polylepis, which help protect soils and headwaters.
• Small-Group Approach: Smaller groups and efficient transport help reduce pressure on the route and improve the traveler experience.

Pack animals are used only where the terrain allows and always with respect for animal welfare. They support logistics; they are not used as a substitute for trekking unless a rare emergency requires coordination under local rules.

• Humane Load Limits: Horses and mules must work within responsible load limits.
• Rest, Water & Care: Animals require proper rest, water, shade, and appropriate handling during the route.
• Terrain Respect: Pack animals do not enter steep, narrow, or inappropriate sections such as Llactapata or Machu Picchu.
• Community Standards: In special cases, guides coordinate with local associations following community rules and animal-welfare standards.

Beyond operating treks, Inside Peru Adventures is working toward a broader social mission through the IPA Sustainable Fund and future education-focused initiatives. Our vision is to connect travel with purpose and help create long-term opportunities for Andean communities.

• Education First: We believe education is one of the most powerful tools for long-term change in rural and local communities.
• Community Support: Future initiatives may include learning materials, school support, cultural exchange, skills training, and local development actions.
• Fair Tourism: Your journey helps us build a model where tourism income supports people, not only places.
• Travel with Purpose: We want each trip to contribute to dignity, opportunity, cultural pride, and positive transformation.

Your fare does more than cover logistics. It helps power a responsible travel chain that supports fair wages, local sourcing, safer operations, and long-term community impact.

• Fair Wages: Better conditions for guides, horsemen, cooks, drivers, and local support teams.
• Safety & Training: First-aid preparation, altitude awareness, emergency response, and operational coordination.
• Staff Equipment: Continued investment in better field gear and safer working conditions.
• Local Purchasing: More value stays in the valleys, villages, and communities along the route.
• Environmental Stewardship: Support for trail care, plastic reduction, native reforestation, and responsible tourism practices.
• Authentic Paths → Sustainable Futures: For IPA, this is not only a phrase; it is the direction we are building toward.

Travelers also play an important role in keeping Salkantay wild, welcoming, and thriving for the next generation. Small actions can create a meaningful legacy.

• Pack Thoughtfully: Bring only what you need and respect the duffel weight limits.
• Use Reusable Hydration: Bring a refillable bottle or hydration bladder to reduce plastic waste.
• Follow Leave No Trace: Stay on trails, avoid littering, respect wildlife, and listen to your guide's environmental briefings.
• Tip if You Wish: Tipping is optional, but it is a meaningful way to recognize excellent service.
• Connect Respectfully: A few words in Quechua or Spanish, a smile, and respectful curiosity go a long way.

Inside Peru Adventures offers a small-group, lodge-based Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu with expert bilingual guides, better comfort, chef-prepared meals, seamless logistics, oxygen support, and meaningful local experiences such as the Lucmabamba Coffee Experience and the Llactapata viewpoint.

• Small Groups: We keep departures more personal, with a maximum of 16 travelers.
• Expert Local Guides: Our guides are trained in altitude awareness, first aid, cultural interpretation, history, and Andean cosmology.
• Lodge-Based Comfort: You sleep in rustic mountain lodges with real beds, not in basic tent camps on most nights.
• Women-Led Tourism: Inside Peru Adventures is proudly led by a Peruvian woman from the Cusco region, with a vision to create more opportunities for women guides, coordinators, drivers, hosts, and local partners in tourism.
• IPA Foundation & Education Vision: We are building a travel model connected to education, community support, and long-term opportunities for Andean families and children.
• Sustainable Impact: Your journey supports fair tourism, local families, community-based experiences, and our broader vision of travel with purpose.

The Salkantay Lodge-Based Trek to Machu Picchu is considered moderate to challenging. Expect approximately 5-10 hours of hiking per day, uneven terrain, long descents, uphill sections, stairs, and high altitude.

• Highest Point: Salkantay Pass at approx. 4,630 m / 15,190 ft.
• Most Demanding Day: Day 2, when we cross Salkantay Pass and descend toward the cloud forest.
• Recommended Fitness: Good general fitness and previous hiking experience are helpful.
• Trekking Poles: Required with rubber tips. Bring your own or rent from IPA for US$25.

The itinerary naturally descends from the High Andes into the cloud forest after Day 2, which helps with recovery. However, the first two days reach significant altitude, so preparation is important.

• Arrive Early: We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek.
• Guide Monitoring: Your guide monitors the group's pace and checks how guests are feeling throughout the route.
• Oxygen Support: Guides carry oxygen and first-aid kits on the trek.
• Daily Briefings: Your guide provides route, altitude, weather, and safety recommendations each evening.
• Personal Care: Hydrate well, drink coca tea if it helps you, eat light, walk slowly, and rest when needed.

At the pre-trek briefing in Cusco, you receive your IPA duffel. This duffel is carried between overnight points by our horsemen or support team, so you only hike with a small daypack.

• Duffel Limit: Maximum 7 kg / 14 lb per traveler.
• Sleep-Warm Kit: If you pack the IPA sleeping bag, liner, and pillow inside your duffel, it counts toward the 7 kg limit.
• Daypack: Bring a compact daypack, ideally 25L or smaller, for water, layers, rain gear, camera, snacks, and passport.
• Main Luggage: Your extra luggage is stored securely in Cusco during the trek and returned after Machu Picchu.
• Valuables: Passport, money, electronics, and fragile items should always stay with you.

The best time to hike the Salkantay Trek to Machu Picchu is usually during the dry season, from April to October, when days are sunnier and mountain views are clearer.

• Dry Season: April to October. Sunny days and cold mornings or nights.
• Best Months: May to September usually offer the most stable trekking conditions.
• Shoulder Months: March, April, October, and November may bring a mix of sun and rain.
• Rainy Season: December to February has more rain, especially near Machu Picchu and the cloud forest.
• Packing Tip: Always bring layers, sun protection, and rain gear regardless of the season.

This trek can be a great option for active families with teenagers, especially those who enjoy hiking, nature, and adventure travel. For younger travelers or families with different walking paces, we recommend a private departure.

• Recommended Age: Best for active travelers around 12 years and older.
• Private Option: A private tour allows the guide to adapt pace, breaks, and timing.
• Important: Families should consider altitude, long hiking days, and weather changes before booking.

Peru can occasionally experience social protests, transport strikes, roadblocks, or rail disruptions. Your safety always comes first, and our Operations team monitors the situation carefully.

• Operational Adjustments: We may adjust departure times, routes, transport plans, or logistics if needed.
• Clear Communication: We coordinate with travelers, local providers, and authorities whenever possible.
• Safety First: We operate only when conditions are safe and responsible.
• Alternatives: If road or rail service becomes impossible, we will discuss equivalent alternatives or rescheduling options.

Yes. We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs with advance notice. Please inform us at the time of booking so our chef team can prepare properly.

• Advance Notice: Dietary requirements must be shared before the trek.
• Chef-Prepared Meals: Meals are designed for energy, altitude, and recovery.
• Food Safety: Our team follows hygiene and food-safety protocols throughout the route.

Yes. Inside Peru Adventures provides safe drinking water, boiled or filtered and cooled, at mealtimes from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 4.

• First Morning: Please bring your own water for the morning of Day 1.
• Refills: You can refill your bottle or hydration bladder at mealtimes when water is provided.
• Recommended Capacity: Carry 2-3 liters for each hiking segment.
• Eco-Friendly Travel: We encourage reusable bottles or hydration systems to reduce single-use plastic.

No. Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain are optional add-on hikes and require separate permits. These permits are limited and can sell out quickly, especially in high season.

• Advance Request: Please request optional hikes as early as possible.
• Availability: Permits depend on official availability at the time of booking.
• Extra Cost: Additional entrance fees apply.
• Physical Demand: These hikes involve steep stairs and require good fitness.

This is not just a trek from point A to point B. Inside Peru Adventures designs the journey as a complete experience combining mountain landscapes, cultural interpretation, lodge-based comfort, meaningful community encounters, and responsible travel.

• Humantay Blue Lagoon: A spectacular glacial lake experience on Day 1.
• Salkantay Pass: A powerful high-Andean crossing with views of sacred snow-capped peaks.
• Cloud Forest Transition: A dramatic ecological change from puna landscapes to orchids, rivers, and tropical vegetation.
• Inside Peru Coffee Experience: A hands-on community-based activity in Lucmabamba.
• Llactapata Viewpoint: A special first panoramic view of Machu Picchu before entering the citadel.
• Lodge-Based Comfort: Real beds and rustic mountain lodges along the route.
• Women-Led Purpose: Your booking supports a local company committed to women's participation, education, fair tourism, and long-term community impact.